Budget Shopping for the New Baby

• Spending more in the beginning may offer a better value in the long run. • Consider products that can grow with your child, such as a convertible car seat or a multi-stage crib. • Be aware of safety issues with hand-me-downs. (See Product Recalls) • Need a changing table? Just add a removable changing tray to a dresser. • Skip the bedding set – all you need is a crib sheet. • For bath time, warm water and a cloth is fine for the first few months. • Invest in a handheld food mill and puree your own baby food. It’s easy, inexpensive, and fast!

etting ready for a new arrival can cost a lot of money. Whether you have a specific budget to stick to, or just want to stretch your dollar further, there are many easy ways to economize without depriving your baby of a thing.

Remember, babies need lots of stuff, but not everything has to be purchased right away. Many purchases can be put off until six months or even a year after your baby is born. And of course, some purchases can be skipped altogether.

One thing to remember when you're shopping is that the ticket price is only part of the equation. Sometimes spending more in the beginning gives you a much better value in the long run.

Maybe the product is made better and will stand up to use without having to be replaced. Or maybe it's a multi-stage product that grows with your child. Either way, sometimes a little splurge can really pay off in the long run.

Another thing to think about? Hand-me-downs are a great way to save money, but make sure you're taking the right hand-me-downs. Safety standards are always evolving, so used gear and furniture – such as car seats, cribs, and high chairs – may not be worth the savings, especially if they're antiques! When in doubt, buy new. For up to date information on safety issues with mom and baby products, see Product Recall Alerts.

Ready? Let's talk about some specific purchases and how you can make the most of your baby budget.

Save on the Big Purchases

Some purchases are inevitable. But with the right information, you can shop smart and get the best value for your money.

Car Seat. Everyone needs a car seat; most hospitals won't let your baby leave the hospital without one. And before you know it, it'll be time to buy a second car seat – usually around six to nine months after birth when your child graduates to a larger seat. But you could save yourself a purchase by buying a convertible car seat that serves as both an infant and toddler seat. This type of seat doesn't have the portability of a true infant seat, but it's a great option when every dollar counts!

Crib. Planning on having more than one child? Your best bet is an economical standard crib that will get passed down from one child to the next. But for single-child families, a good multi-stage crib that grows into a toddler bed is a great way to make sure your purchase sees years of use. They might cost more up front, but they're a great value for your money!

High chair. When choosing a high chair, remember that they only get used for about a year. So, instead of a fully loaded model with all the bells and whistles, you could save money with a simple, streamlined model that's less expensive. Or, for long-term value, invest in a Scandinavian-style high chair that grows with your child, like the Svan.